AN unbeaten century and four wickets helped Julian Lambert claim the Evening News/Duncan Fearnley Cricket Sales Ltd Cricketer of the Week award.

Lambert's feat with the ball deserves extra mention because the 23-year-old is normally a wicketkeeper and last bowled in a match four years ago.

His 101 not out and 4-37 helped Hanley Castle & Upton defeat Worcester Corinthians by 78 runs as the home side amassed 267-3 before bowling Corinthians out for 189.

The Swansea university student grabbed the headlines after hitting 16 fours and one six during his first Saturday hundred for the club.

An attacking batsman by nature, Lambert wasted little time in reaching his third career ton.

Slapped

"I timed it well because I came in at the end of the opening bowlers' spell and just slapped it around a bit," he said.

But Lambert, who was on the fringes of Worcester Rugby Club's first team squad before dislocating a knee three years ago, was more chuffed with his bowling performance.

"I normally keep wicket but we were short of bowlers so I gave it a go," said Lambert, playing just his third match of the summer.

"It's the first time I've bowled in four years but my little medium pacers did the trick."

Hanley's victory leaves them second behind Cape Hill Victoria at the top of Worcestershire County League Division Five and with a crunch match against the leaders to come, Lambert is confident his team can push for the title.

"Our problem is fielding the same team from week to week but if we can manage to put out our strongest side I think we have got a good chance of winning," said Lambert who is in his 10th season with the club.

Lambert has won £40 vouchers to spend at Duncan Fearnley Cricket Sales Ltd at Unit 10, Sherriff Street, Worcester.

Drop your reports in at our Hylton Road offices in Worcester, fax them on 01905-748009 or e-mail us at wensport@thisisworcester.co.uk

Reports must reach us by 12 noon on Tuesday to be considered for that week's award. The sports editor's decision is final.